Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
DONOVAN Bernard’s return to Chicken Inn has closed a short lived chapter in South Africa, one that promised much, but ultimately fizzled out.
The former Warriors goalkeeper was set for a move to South Africa’s National First Division side Kruger United, with whispers that DStv Premiership giants Orlando Pirates were circling for a possible loan deal. But that transfer is now off, and Bernard is back between the sticks at Chicken Inn.
Club president Lifa Ncube confirmed the goalkeeper’s return.
“All I can say is that Donovan is back. He was not happy, and we’ve accepted him back,” said Ncube.
“He is our son, and we will always cherish what he has done for us.”
Bernard made an immediate impact on his return, keeping goal on Sunday as Chicken Inn dismantled Dynamos 3-0 in a clinical performance at Luveve. Ironically, what may have been his final match in Gamecocks colours before his SA move was the goalless Bulawayo Derby draw against Highlanders at Barbourfields over a month ago.
Described by many as a safe pair of hands, the stocky Simbisa Brands sponsored shot stopper has served the Gamecocks with distinction over the years, earning respect and rumoured interest from across the Limpopo.
According to impeccable sources, Bernard’s move to Kruger United was all but done. The NFD outfit, known for its ambitions, had reportedly laid the groundwork for the deal, before complications emerged.
Even more tantalising were suggestions that Orlando Pirates were keeping tabs on Bernard, viewing him as a possible short term reinforcement via a loan from Kruger.
“We will stand informed by the player. It is his career, and we’ll be guided by his agent, Gibson Mahachi,” added Ncube.
This isn’t Bernard’s first dance with South African football disappointment. Back in 2020, the former TTM (Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila), who had previously bought out Milano United’s franchise and later acquired Bidvest Wits’ topflight status, tried to lure Bernard, but that deal also soured.
Now 29, Bernard faces a fresh challenge: reclaiming his spot as Chicken Inn’s No.1, with Pride Zendera offering strong competition.
A veteran of stints at How Mine and Ngezi Platinum Stars, Bernard remains one of the most experienced goalkeepers in the domestic league and his story with the Gamecocks, it seems, isn’t over just yet.